Solicitor Apprentice Review

The job role really depends on which department you are sat with and can vary from day to day - there is no "typical" day. So far, I have had the opportunity to attend a virtual arbitration hearing whilst sitting with the Construction team, which was an invaluable experience. I now sit with the Banking team and assist with drafting security documents, reviewing corporate authorisations, preparing transaction bibles and facilitating the execution of documents. There is also regular training and internal catch-ups.

I've been able to develop my communication skills, through client exposure and presenting both internally and externally in relation to the apprenticeship. For example, I recently presented to school leavers about the apprenticeship at Burges Salmon - something I never would have had the confidence to do before I started the apprenticeship. I have also developed my drafting skills, through assisting with the drafting of various contentious and non-contentious documents, receiving regular feedback and reviewing our precedents. Internal training sessions have also assisted with this.

I am thoroughly enjoying the apprenticeship, and the broad range of experience I have gained so far through sitting with different departments. The apprentice seat rotations are long enough for apprentices to gain a really good insight into that department and it's different specialisms, and to pick up a wide range of different work. I also find the network of the apprentices at the firm invaluable - it's great to have peers that are going through the same process as you, to discuss your experiences and study.

The programme is very well organised. Apprentices have 1 day a week for study, and spend the rest of the week spent in the firm working within their departments. I have found cross over between the subjects I've studied so far and my work within the firm, which has been really useful to reinforce my learning, through the practical application of theory. I am aware of the structure going forward and feel prepared. BPP provide regular updates on the programme, for example in relation to SQE.

I receive significant support from Burges Salmon, for example, as part of the practical portfolio I have to build for the apprenticeship, my supervisor has been fantastic at finding me work to tick off the relevant outcomes. The firm also gives exam leave around exam periods to ensure apprentices have enough time to prepare for exams and lawyers are very understanding of the work-study balance. There is also a very strong support network for apprentices, for example I have a supervisor, a solicitor mentor, a people team contact and each department also has an "apprentice champion".

BPP provide excellent support. Earlier this week, I had a catch up call with my portfolio coach to discuss the types of work I could use to meet the outcomes of my portfolio, and what work I've done so far that could be used. BPP also provide feedback on exams and coursework, which is really helpful at developing exam techniques and highlighting areas for improvement. I also have regular catch-ups with my apprenticeship manager, to discuss how I am getting on with both work and study and to set myself targets.

As mentioned above, I have experienced cross-over between the topics I've studied so far and my work within the firm. For example, I am currently studying land law, which has much cross-over with my work in banking. I have found studying this has furthered my understanding of mortgages and other security. Practical topics such as the legal research module have also been useful in my job role; this module taught me how to present research in a clear and concise way.

There are plenty of opportunities for social activities, even though I am now working from home. Pre-covid, I was able to attend networking events with clients, team BBQs, firm socials and team training days. Since the move to remote working, there has also been lots of social opportunities (albeit virtually). I've attended virtual escape rooms, murder mysteries, cook-alongs and most recently a pancake day cook-along with my team. These have all been great opportunities to stay in touch with colleagues, despite not being able to see them in person.

Yes

I would definitely recommend Burges Salmon to a friend. The firm has a very unique culture, and I love its inclusive nature. Despite being an apprentice, I never feel any less valued than other people in the team. The firm is genuinely invested in you realising your potential and I've been presented with many opportunities I would not have expected, for example attending a secondment with a firm in London. My confidence has grown massively.

One word of advice would be to research the firm prior to the interview. I think it's important to show a genuine interest in the firm and know what they're all about before applying for a job - it shows your enthusiasm and will also help you decide whether the job role is right for you. I'd also think about how your previous work experiences or commitments are transferable to the role and how. Most importantly I would say be yourself.